This chirimen silk fukusa, measuring 26 inches (66 cm) by 28 inches (71 cm), portrays three military chieftains riding horses through snowy landscapes. The artist has chosen to partially blacken the faces of these figures, which might symbolize protection from the intense sunlight glare reflecting off the snow. Despite this intentional artistic touch, the piece remains in very good condition.

This artwork is featured on pages 188-189 of Ceremonial Textiles of Japan, 18th to 20th Centuries. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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